Here's a tip for a fun experience at River Perk — look beyond the standard menu.

The coffee shop, which opened in late May in downtown Wetumpka, features standard menu items such as mochas and lattes that make for fine treats. But the staff, willing to take custom orders, enjoys a challenge.

"You don't have to stick to the basics," said Savannah Dart, general manager. "You get to be creative."

One of Dart's favorites is what she calls a "dreamy mocha" that contains dark and white chocolate along with caramel and vanilla flavoring. While that is a concoction she came up with, other customers have done the same.

In fact, if a creation suggested by a customer becomes liked by the staff it will make it onto the menu. Dart said they will even name the drink after the customer who suggested it.

But the fun doesn't stop there. While the standard menu describes available malts and milkshakes in standard vanilla, chocolate and strawberry flavors, Dart said they have toyed with those as well. She said while the strawberry flavor is the most popular, they currently offer honey bun and Butterfinger-flavored milkshakes.

River Perk sits on Company Street in downtown Wetumpka, with inside and outside seating that helps give it a cafe feel. Treats such as brownies, scones and muffins are also sometimes available, with the selection often changing.

It is owned by Johnny Oates, who also owns the nearby Company Store.

"He loves this town and knows that revitalization is happening," Dart said.

River Perk is also attempting to fit in with nearby businesses. Some of the treats at the restaurant come from the staff at Grumpy Dog, a hot dog eatery that sits diagonally across from River Perk. Dart said they encourage customers to try both places, allowing them to bring items from both businesses.

Dart said they also try to keep fruit and healthy drinks stocked for the customer base of the gym that sits across the street. She said the coffee shop has so far been well-received.